One Killed, Three Injured as Two Helicopters Collide Near Mount Everest in Nepal

Fatal Helicopter Collision in Nepal's Everest Region

One person was killed and three others were injured after two helicopters collided while attempting to land at Pheriche helipad in Nepal's Solukhumbu district on Tuesday morning, November 3, 2026.

The accident occurred at approximately 8:11 a.m. local time in Pheriche, a settlement in Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality-4, situated along the popular trekking route to Everest Base Camp.

According to reports from local authorities, the helicopters were operated by Air Dynasty and Fishtail Air. The aircraft collided during their landing manoeuvres at the helipad.

Victim and Injured

The deceased was identified by police as 47-year-old Vasanthkumar Balaramudu, an Indian national from Chennai in Tamil Nadu. He was a passenger aboard the Fishtail Air helicopter.

Three people were reported injured, including the pilots of both helicopters and a passenger identified as 49-year-old Shaileshkumar Patel, a New Zealand citizen of Indian origin.

The injured were taken for medical treatment. Patel and Fishtail Air pilot Rabindra Prajapati were airlifted to Nepal Mediciti Hospital in Lalitpur. Air Dynasty pilot Prajal KC was taken for treatment in Lukla, according to local reporting.

Emergency Response

Rescue and evacuation operations were carried out using other helicopters operating in the region. The injured and the deceased were transported from the remote mountain settlement for medical care and further procedures.

Pheriche lies at an altitude of approximately 4,200 metres and is an important stop for trekkers travelling toward Everest Base Camp.

Helicopters play a major role in the Everest region because road access is extremely limited. They are frequently used to transport trekkers, climbers, supplies and people requiring emergency evacuation.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have begun investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision. Initial reports indicate that the helicopters came into contact while landing, but the precise sequence of events and the cause have not yet been officially established.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal and local authorities are gathering information about the incident.

Further details about the flight operations, aircraft condition and circumstances leading to the collision are expected as the investigation progresses.

Breaking Global News will continue to follow verified updates from aviation authorities and local officials.